Photos and videos

Last updated: 6 September 2019

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What to do if a photo or video is taken or posted online without permission or if you’re concerned about an image on Google Street View or in the media

Photos and videos of you are treated as personal information under the Privacy Act 1988 (Privacy Act) if your identity is clear or could reasonably be worked out. Your privacy rights for photos and videos will depend on the situation.

Taken without permission

If the photo or video was taken by someone acting in a personal capacity, the Privacy Act doesn’t apply — because it doesn’t cover individuals.

In some situations, there may be state or territory laws that prevent someone photographing your private activities without your consent. Contact the Attorney-General’s Department in your state or territory for more information or the police if you are concerned for your safety.

Posted online without permission

First, ask the person who posted the photo or video online to take it down. If they refuse, or you don’t know who it is, contact the site’s administrator and ask them to remove the photo or video.

If they don’t respond to your complaint, or you’re not satisfied with their response, you can lodge a complaint with us if the photo or video posted online is hosted by an organisation or agency covered by the Privacy Act.

The Privacy Act covers organisations with an annual turnover of more than $3 million and operate in Australia, and some other organisations. A number of factors go into deciding if an organisation operates in Australia, including if they have a presence in Australia or carry on a business in Australia.

Images on Google Street View

Google Street View images are only taken from publicly accessible places, but identifiable faces and number plates should be blurred.

To report an image you are concerned about, view the image on Google Street View and click on the Report a Problem function at the bottom right corner of the image.

You can also contact Google Street View if you are concerned about a privacy breach on their website.

Images in the media

The Privacy Act doesn’t apply to a media organisation carrying out its work of journalism. A media organisation that has publicly committed to observing published, written privacy standards, may collect, prepare and distribute news, current affairs, information or documentaries.

If you have a complaint about how an Australian newspaper, magazine or any of their associated digital outlets has used a photo or video of you, contact the Australian Press Council.